Sounds like you're talking more center-of-gravity than outright overall weight. This may be why I've been leaning more to the ZX650R over the Versys. The ZX is a lower CG bike as compared to the taller Versys. The combination of higher ground clearance and taller seat height of the Versys does affect this feeling to a greater degree than the ZX. And again, like I already said, the ZX650R doesn't have the egonomic layout of a sportbike. It has the more upright handlebar and footpeg positioning of a "standard" motorcyle even though it has the appearance of a crotch rocket. I guess my overall answer to your question would be "yes"...the taller profile and CG of the Versys along with its increased weight over the SM will be noticeable...along with its 70 or so horsepower over the approximately 35 horsepower of the Suzuki. There may be a noticeable wheelbase issue at work here too.

 

I have a lower back issue and the Versys upright seating position accommodates this problem very well. I had a 761 mile ride a couple
of weeks ago Ride to Hood River Oregon - Kawasaki Versys Forum and suffered no discomfort.
Tom

 

Thanks TNC and Tom, your input helps greatly. All I've been able to do is sit on one. HP is not a factor, but maybe higher sitting weight (technical term) might be...just have to see. Wheel base is very similar, short. The DRZ can be very twitchy at times, but doesn't bother me at all. Relaxed riding helps calm it down. I just like to hear from people who have been on similar bikes. We can relate stuff to each other better that way. Again, thanks guys. Always rely on your knowledge. Now if they'd only sell me a Hypermotard for cheap, I wouldn't even go down this road.
Just an update to this one. Got my new Versys a couple weeks ago. Love the bike. One of the easiest bikes I've ridden to date. Changed out mirrors, levers and windshield. Only a 100 miles on it so far, but that's because my job as daddy limits me a bit. Still, lots of fun.